In a moving order rooted in compassion and love, the Kerala High Court has granted a life convict 15 days of parole to marry a woman who has remained unwavering in her commitment to him despite his incarceration. The Court said it could not ignore the “brave stand” of the woman, who had decided to marry the convict knowing that he would continue to serve a life sentence.
Justice PV Kunhikrishnan, presiding over the case Sathy v State of Kerala & Ors, began the order by quoting American poet Maya Angelou:
“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”
The Court was hearing a criminal writ petition filed by the convict’s mother, seeking emergency parole so that her son could marry his long-time partner on July 13, 2025.
Justice Kunhikrishnan noted the emotional strength of the woman’s decision, writing:
“Even after the convict was sentenced to undergo life imprisonment, her love continues. In other words, she says that ‘you are my today, my tomorrow, and my forever.’ She says that ‘you are my soul mate, my partner, my best friend.’ This Court cannot neglect the brave stand of that girl.”
The convict had earlier sought parole from jail authorities, but his request was denied on the ground that there was no specific provision under prison rules allowing parole for one’s own marriage. This led his mother to move the High Court.
After confirming that the marriage was indeed fixed before the conviction, the Court exercised its extraordinary jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution, stating:
“I am of the considered opinion that 15 days’ parole can be given to the convict. Let that girl be happy, and this Court showers all blessings upon her.”
The convict will be released on July 12, 2025, and must return to prison by 4 PM on July 26, 2025.
The petitioner was represented by advocates P Mohamed Sabah, Libin Stanley, Saipooja, Sadik Ismayil, R Gayathri, M Mahin Hamza, Alwin Joseph, and Benson Ambrose. The State was represented by Senior Public Prosecutor Seetha S.
Case: Sathy vs State of Kerala & ors – Available on LAWFYI.IO
